CZ301666B6 - Assembly for storing and dispensing beverage and beverage dispensing method - Google Patents

Abstract

In the present invention, there is disclosed an assembly for dispensing beer and other beverages containing carbon dioxide, said assembly comprising a tapping device (1) and a fluid container (3), dispensing means, a pressure chamber (11), which, when used fills up the space between said fluid container (3) and said tapping device (1), and a pressure source by means of which the pressure medium is injected into the pressure chamber (11). There is also disclose a method for tapping a beverage, said method being characterized in that the beverage is dispensed by dispensing means from the fluid container (3) without bringing into mutual contact the beverage and pressure medium.

Description

Assembly for storage and tapping of beverages and method of tapping a beverage

Technical field

The invention relates to a beverage storage and tapping assembly, a beverage tapping method, a beverage cartridge, a complementary component and an apparatus for storing beer and other beverages, and generally relates to an apparatus similar to that of the European patent application EP 0 377 195.

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BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The device according to said European patent application consists of a pressure vessel and a beverage container which can be placed in the pressure vessel and which can be compressed by supplying a pressure source such as air or water to the pressure vessel. The beverage container is connected to the outlet tube located in a portion of the pressure vessel housing by a screw connection. The pressure vessel comprises a cuboid-shaped lower part and a housing part which is removable from said lower part. When the device is in use, the beverage cartridge is screwed into the removed part of the cover and then placed in the lower part. Then the cover is attached to the bottom. This creates a pressure chamber around the entire beverage container. The outlet tube is provided with a tap, by means of which the outlet tube can be opened and closed. When the tap is open, the beverage can flow out of the beverage cartridge through the outlet channel and out into the environment due to the beverage cartridge being compressed. This known device allows tapping a beverage from a compressible beverage cartridge.

A disadvantage of this known device is that it is possible to increase the pressure in the pressure vessel without the beverage container being present. This is undesirable from an energy and safety perspective. In addition, before being placed in the pressure chamber, the beverage cartridge should be screwed into a loose portion of the housing, and in addition, the beverage cartridge should first be opened. Only then can the beverage container be placed in a pressure vessel which is then closed. That is, while the beverage cartridge is placed in the pressure chamber, the beverage may flow out of the machine. In addition, part of the cover should be completely separated from the bottom. This means that an accurate design measurement of the required pressure resistance required to compress the beverage container must be made. A further disadvantage of this device is that the beverage cartridge is held in the pressure vessel only in the vicinity of the throat, causing insufficient bottle stability.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The drawbacks of the prior art are overcome by the beverage storage and tapping assembly of the present invention, consisting of a beverage tapping device comprising a fluid outlet device, a beverage container for fluids, especially beer or soft drinks, tapped by a beverage tapping device; a pressure chamber filling the space between the beverage cartridge and the beverage dispensing device in use, which is connected to a pump for filling it with a pressurized medium and thereby discharging fluid from the beverage cartridge through an outlet device excluding fluid contact with the pressurized medium; it is at least partially delimited and separated from the surrounding space by the closing portion of the beverage cartridge and is located at a distance from the beverage outlet opening, wherein the beverage outlet opening The storage tank is outside the pressure chamber.

It is also essential that the closure part comprises a secondary lid covering the beverage cartridge at a distance from the filling and / or outlet opening, the secondary lid being seated on the beverage tapping device by a sealing connection.

-1 CZ 301666 B6

Furthermore, it is essential that the beverage container is in the form of a bottle or barrel and comprises a transition portion with an outlet opening, the closure portion extending in the elongation of the longitudinal edge of the transition portion lying opposite the outlet opening and the closure portion is rigidly connected to, or integral with, the beverage cartridge, or even that the closure portion is disposed in a complementary component that is mounted on the beverage cartridge, or at least on a portion thereof surrounding the outlet opening, particularly the outlet opening .

It is also essential that the beverage cartridge is non-deformable by the pressure generated when used in the pressure chamber, the pressure chamber being at least partially housed in the beverage cartridge within which at least one pressure deformable portion is separately formed a fluid storage compartment which is pumped from the pressure chamber, and that the deformable portion is a membrane or bag, or that the deformable portion has the shape of a bag or bottle, at least the sleeve of the deformable portion being attached to the beverage container preferably at or near said outlet.

It is also essential that the outer side of the beverage cartridge is provided with at least one bore for supplying a pressurized fluid and for connecting the pressure chamber in the beverage cartridge to the external space, and that at least one bore is located near the top of the beverage cartridge or distant from its bottom or that the beverage cartridge is deformable substantially or is fully compressible by the pressure generated during use in the pressure chamber at least when the outlet device is open, at least the closure portion and preferably the complementary component being non-deformed to maintain the sealing connection. the beverage cartridge within the complementary member is deformable.

It is furthermore essential that the beverage container is thin-walled, self-supporting and is made of plastic, preferably a thermoplastic polymer, more preferably PEN, most preferably a combination of PEN and PET, and that the beverage container comprises a tubular outlet device which is connected or connectable to the outlet orifice, the tubular outlet device which is rigidly connected to the beverage cartridge during use prevents contact of the tapped fluid with the other parts of the outlet device, or that the tubular outlet device, or that the tubular outlet device is at least partially flexible; is in the form of a resilient compressible outlet hose, or that at least the free end of the tubular outlet device extends out of the assembly during use, the outlet device being at least partially positioned within the mechanism for clamping it from the outside to the closing or opening the liquid flow, the beverage dispensing device being removable from the mechanism and collapsible with the beverage cartridge.

Also, the fact that the tubular outlet device includes a connection device, at least its free end being displaceable to a distance from the outlet orifice is an essential feature of the invention, and that near or at the outlet orifice of the beverage cartridge in a filled condition before use, there is provided a sharp end tubular connector to connect the interior of the beverage cartridge to the liquid outlet passage as the pressure in the pressure chamber increases, or that the tubular outlet device comprises at least a sharp end tubular connector and the outlet passage.

It is also an essential feature that the beverage cartridge in the beverage dispensing device is surrounded at a distance from its surface by the peripheral wall of the pressure chamber, wherein the closure portion is slightly distant from the closure device, the closure portion being pressed as the pressure chamber increases against this closure device to close the beverage tapping device and the pressure chamber, or even that the sharp end of the tubular connecting member is pushed through the insulating membrane during movement of the beverage cartridge against the closure device.

Another essential feature is that the beverage stopper comprises a first barrel-shaped part provided with a secondary lid which is preferably rotatably mounted on the first part

The UIDOO OO and the beverage cartridge are mounted adjustable vertically within the first portion and closed by a secondary lid to form a pressure chamber, the assembly including a protective device to prevent the secondary lid from being opened to pressurize the pressure chamber to a higher pressure than the ambient pressure. an environment for isolating the beverage container from the environment than the pressure in the pressure chamber and / or the beverage container is first raised above the ambient pressure.

In the method of tapping a beverage, in particular a beverage containing carbon dioxide such as beer or carbonated soft drinks according to the invention, it is essential that the beverage in the closed beverage cartridge is placed in a receptacle-shaped beverage dispensing device, beverage cartridge with outlet and primary a lid surrounding the outlet aperture at a distance from the outlet aperture is airtight in the receptacle-shaped portion such that a pressure chamber is formed between the beverage cartridge, the inner wall of the receptacle and the closure portion, the free end of at least partially flexible tubular outlet device connected to the beverage cartridge the outlet opening is placed outside the beverage dispensing device, the beverage cartridge is closed by the outer lid and ensures a portion of the tubular outlet device exiting the beverage dispenser for beverage tapping is placed in the throttle mechanism for opening and closing the passage through the outlet device, the pressure chamber pressure is increased by pressure means, the inner part of the beverage cartridge is then brought into contact with the external environment by at least a throttling mechanism; pressurizing the tubular outlet device into the environment while reducing the portion of the beverage cartridge that contains the beverage.

Furthermore, in the method it is essential that during or before the interior of the beverage container is brought into contact with the external environment, the antiseptic insulating membrane ruptures through the sharp end of the tubular fastener due to pressure build-up in the pressure chamber or the beverage container is moved relative to the sharp end of the tubular connector to push it through the insulating membrane.

It is also essential that the compressible beverage cartridge, the closure portion of which is disposed on the components 30 of the relatively rigid component compared to the beverage cartridge, is compressed during the pressure chamber pressure build-up within the complementary component to displace the beverage or a beverage container comprising a storage compartment and at least a portion of the pressure chamber that are separated from each other by the flexible membrane, as the pressure in the pressure chamber increases, the flexible diaphragm expels at least partially in the direction of the outlet opening from the decreasing storage compartment.

The drawbacks of the prior art are also remedied by a beverage cartridge having the shape of a bottle or barrel and comprising a transition portion with an outlet opening, the closure portion being located at an elongation of the longitudinal edge of the transition portion which is an edge lying opposite the outlet opening. wherein the closure portion is rigidly connected to the beverage cartridge, or is integral with the beverage cartridge.

Furthermore, it is made of a synthetic material, preferably PEN, more preferably a combination of PET and PEN, and that it is intended to store beer, in particular a lager with a CO ₂ content of more than 3 g / kg, in particular a CO ₂ content of greater than 4.5 g / kg and having a volume of 2 L or more, preferably at least 4 L, or that its wall is provided with deformation zones for at least partial directional dependence of the beverage container deformation when compressed by external pressure by at least radial in a direction, preferably in an axial direction and / or a radial direction.

Further, it is also of the essence that its walls are non-deformable in use, wherein inside the beverage container there is a bag or bottle-shaped storage compartment which is compressible and is fixed at least inside or near the outlet opening of the beverage container, wherein at least one wall of the storage container. the compartment is substantially oxygen impermeable.

-3GB 3U1666 B6

The drawbacks of the prior art are also overcome by the beverage tapping device of the invention, which comprises a pressure chamber in which, in use, at least partially the beverage cartridge is stored in such a manner, the pressure chamber being at least partially formed by the space between the beverage cartridge and the pump device. The pressurized space is at least partially delimited and separated from the surrounding space by the closure portion of the beverage cartridge and is located at a distance from the outlet opening of the beverage cartridge, wherein the outlet opening of the beverage cartridge is outside the pressure chamber.

Also, the complementary component of the invention overcomes the drawbacks of the prior art, being that it is attachable to the beverage cartridge, or at least to a portion thereof surrounding the outlet opening, in particular to the neck of the outlet opening of the beverage container.

The drawbacks of the prior art are also eliminated by the apparatus for storing and tapping beer and other beverages according to the invention, which is characterized in that the beverage container consists of a separating device 5 separating the storage compartment in the beverage container from the pressure compartment, a storage compartment and a pressure source is connected to the pressure compartment for supplying the pressure medium to at least partially move the separation means and reduce the volume of the storage compartment and displace the beverage when the outlet device is opened.

It is also based on the fact that the pressure source and the discharge device, to which the outlet device is connected, are part of a beverage tapping device comprising a storage space accommodating at least partially a beverage cartridge in which the wall is at least some distance from the bottom one opening to which a pressure source is connected for loosely connecting the pressure source to the pressure space in the beverage cartridge.

It is also an object of the invention to have a bag of resilient material mounted in or near the outlet opening in the storage compartment, wherein at least one pressure space is located between the wall of the beverage container and the bag.

It is also essential that the beverage cartridge comprises an outer lid attached to another portion thereof, wherein at least a portion of the outlet device is covered by the outer lid, the outer lid having at least one opening covered by a detachable cover and a portion of the detachable cover which is in contact with the outer lid, it consists of a tear-off closure for access to the outer lid only after the tear-off closure has been torn off, and that the tear-off closure consists of a plurality of individual parts connecting the detachable cover to the outer lid or the device is at least partially flexible outlet hose for connection to the dispensing device and inseparable from the beverage cartridge.

Also, the fact that the dispensing device includes a cooling device for cooling the beverage when tapped, or that the cooling device is located near the dispensing device is essential. as well as the fact that the dispensing device includes a connection device on which at least one side, during use, the information relating to the beverage contained in the beverage cartridge is visible from the outside.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the apparatus, FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the upper portion of a beverage cartridge for use in the apparatus of claim 1; 1, FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of an upper portion of an alternative embodiment of a beverage cartridge intended for use in an apparatus according to the present invention; FIG. an alternative embodiment of the beverage cartridge, together with a schematic

Fig. 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the upper portion of another alternative embodiment of a beverage cartridge according to the present invention, along with a respective portion of the beverage dispensing device; Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a beverage cartridge filled with beverage prior to use; Fig. 9A shows a schematic cross-section of a device according to the invention which is ready for connection to a tapping means; Fig. 9A a closure device for use with a beverage cartridge; Fig. 9B an alternative embodiment of a beverage cartridge closure device; Fig. 10 is a sectional view of the beverage cartridge of Fig. 8 in an emptied state, with the possibility of being connected to a pressure source located outside the system; Fig. 10A of a modification of the device of Fig. 10 where the connection is also between beverage feed Fig. 11 is a plan view of a beverage cartridge in which the lid is partially broken off; Fig. 12 an alternative embodiment of the device of the present invention; Fig. 13 is a plan view of a membrane to be used with the beverage cartridge in one alternative embodiment; Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the beverage cartridge of the second alternative embodiment; Fig. 15 of a device in another alternative embodiment; Fig. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the beverage cartridge in the third alternative embodiment; 16C is a schematic representation of three exemplary embodiments of double-walled bags for use in the apparatus of FIG. 16.

In Figures 1 to 7, like parts are denoted by the same reference numerals the same applies to Figures 8 to 16C.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The assembly shown in Fig. 1 comprises a beverage tapping device 1 in which a beverage cartridge 3 is placed. In this embodiment, the beverage cartridge 3 described below has the shape of a bottle. The beverage tapping device 1 comprises a first block-shaped part 5 to which a cover 7 is connected by means of a pin connection, which allows the first part 5 to be closed at its open end. In Fig. 1, the cover 2 is shown by a solid line in the closed position and by a dashed line in the open position.

The first part 5 comprises a circumferential wall 9 defining a space for accommodating the beverage container 3, the space thus defined being a pressure chamber 11. A closing device 13 is provided along the upper edge of the pressure chamber 11 which can cooperate with the closing portion 15 of the beverage container. 3 and which makes it possible to seal the pressure chamber 11 so that it is at least airtight and waterproof. During use, the pressure created in the pressure chamber 11 is balanced by the beverage cartridge 3, the walls of the pressure chamber 11 and the closure portion 15 together with the closure device 13, and there is no need for this pressure to equalize the cover 7. and securely, and in addition, very little force is required to close the cover 7.

In the circumferential wall 9 of the first part 5 there is a pump 17, which is connected by means of a first tube to a pressure source, which in this embodiment is ambient air. Furthermore, the pump Γ7 is connected to the pressure chamber jj by means of a second tube. so that the pump 17 can fill the pressure chamber 11. pressure medium. By means of the pressure tube 23, the second tube 21 is connected to the pressure regulator 25, thereby allowing the pressure chamber U to be checked during use. The pressure regulator 25 is connected via a pressure tube 27 to a safety valve 29 which is controlled by a cover 7. When the cover 7 is opened, the safety valve 29 is opened, preventing further pressure build-up in the pressure chamber 11 and relieving the overpressure therein. further improves user safety. Further, a cooling device 31 is provided in the peripheral wall 9 to provide cooling of the beverage cartridge 3 and is supplied via a pressure medium through the pressure chamber wall 11. Further, in the peripheral wall 9 control elements 33 are connected. controller 25, with a cooling device 31 and a pump switch 34 operated by the cover 7, which serves to turn on the pump 17 when the cover 7 is closed and the pump off when the cover 7 is opened. The peripheral wall 9 is thermally insulated in such a way as to maintain the beverage container 3, or at least its content at the desired temperature under energy-efficient conditions.

-5GB 301666 B6

The beverage tapping device I according to the invention is described in more detail in the application of the Dutch patent "Beverage tapping device" of the same priority right. Other components of this apparatus will be described in relation to the beverage cartridge 3 and to the use of the apparatus of the present invention.

The beverage cartridge 3 has the shape of a bottle in Figs. 1 and 2 and is adapted to contain beer-like beverages. The beverage cartridge 3 may also contain other beverages containing or not containing carbon dioxide, such as lemonades, soft drinks or wine.

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The beverage cartridge 3 consists of a cylindrical wall 35, closed at the first end by bottom 37. On the side opposite to bottom 37, a widening transition portion 39, which comprises a cylindrical neck 44, is connected to the cylindrical wall 35. The orifice 41 includes an outlet orifice 43 which allows the beverage cartridge 3 to be filled and emptied with the beverages. The beverage container 3 shown in FIG. 2 is preferably made of plastic, such as polyester PET - polyethylene terephthalate / PBT - polybutene terephthalate or PEN - polyethylene naphthalate. A particular advantage of PEN is its gas tightness, which is of great importance when using a beverage cartridge 3 containing carbonated beverages similar to beer. In addition, the beverage contained in the beverage cartridge 3 is contaminated and spoiled. Due to the shaping of the beverage cartridge 3 into the shape of a bottle, the design of the beverage cartridge is jointless and is therefore prevented from bursting when the pressure inside the cartridge increases. The beverage cartridge 3 according to the invention can be produced in another way and from other materials.

The outlet opening 43 of the throat 41 is provided with a thin insulating membrane 45, clamped at the longitudinal end of the throat 44 by means of a primary lid 47. The thin insulating membrane 45 seals the outlet opening 43 so that it is at least partially airtight and waterproof. Especially in the case of using the beverage cartridge 3 for storing beer or similar beverages containing carbon dioxide, the advantage of this embodiment lies in the possibility of sterile storage of the beverage. In the case of a larger filling of the beverage container 3, for example containing more than 2 liters, it is possible to omit pasteurization in the case of a sterile filling of the beverage container 3 with beverage. With such large volumes, pasteurization of the beverage takes a very long time. Furthermore, it has been found that especially in the case of relatively large volumes, the use of a beverage container 3 made of said plastic according to the invention is advantageous because such a beverage container 3 is relatively light and has a small surface relative to its volume, thereby further eliminating the problems having a gas permeability of the material from which the beverage cartridge 3 is made. These advantages increase as the volume of the beverage cartridge 3 increases. The beverage cartridge 3 of this type is particularly suitable for filling with beer whose taste and composition is very sensitive to oxidation. Usually lager is more susceptible to oxidation than yeast beer. For lager, the threshold of susceptibility to spoilage is about 1 to 2 ppm (= mg / l) over a period of six months, while in the case of yeast beer it is much higher, for example three or more times the value in the same period. Therefore, air leakage protection is more important for lager than for yeast beer. In addition, such storage is also suitable for beverages with a high CO ₂ content, for example having a content higher than 3 g / kg. Also for this reason, the storage method described in the present invention is particularly suitable for storing lager, containing, for example, 4.8-5.4 g / kg CO ₂ , while the CO ₂ content of yeast beer is about 3 g / kg. Obviously, the present invention provides a storage method suitable also for yeast beer and other beverages in case of lower pressure in the beverage container.

On the surface of the throat 41, two superposed projections 49, 5L are disposed. By means of a suitable retaining means 53, such as an annular latch, the primary lid 47 is attached to the upper surface projection 49 in such a way that the latch 55 abuts the top of the thin insulating membrane 45 The primary lid 47 comprises a major end face 57 which overlaps a major portion of the outlet aperture 43. The retaining means 53 extend from the major end face 57 in a first direction. From the main face 57, the first tubular member 59 extends away from the gripping means 55, parallel to the latch 55. Concentrating with the first tubular member 59, it enters the

3U1666 B6 of the main end face 57 the second tubular member 6b that closes the continuous bore 63 in the primary lid 47. The height of the second tubular member 6b located above the main end face 57 is slightly less than the height of the first tubular member 59 above this main end face (57)

A complementary member 65 is shown on the primary lid 47 as shown in FIG. 3.

The complementary member 65 consists of a secondary lid 67 and a distributor 69. The secondary lid 67, which is preferably made of plastic or light metal, consists of a cup portion 71 with a shell shape 73. Around the longitudinal wall of the cup portion 71 an annular protrusion for closing is formed on the opposite side of the bulges 73 at least partially forming a closing portion 15 which cooperates with the closing device 13 of the beverage tapping device.

On the opposite side of the concavities 73, the cup portion 71 includes a cylindrical portion 77, the interior of which exactly fits into the outer portion of the cylindrical wall 35 of the undeformed beverage cartridge 3. The cup portion 71 extends along the transition portion 39. A cylindrical wall 79, which includes second gripping means 81 extending from the cylindrical wall 79, enters inwardly from the upper end of the concave 73 inwardly along its free longitudinal end. These second gripping means 81 may act on the second surface projection 51 formed on the neck 44 of the beverage cartridge 3. In the middle of the upper face 83 of the bulges 73 is a through hole 85 closed by a sealing sleeve 87 which extends inwardly concentrically with the cylindrical wall 79. 87 consists of a wide first portion 89 disposed adjacent the upper face 83 of the bulges 73 to a second narrow portion 93 coupled to the first portion via a truncated conical portion 91. The wide first portion 89 is just such that it engages and slightly grips the second tubular member 61 The height of the sealing sleeve 87 is approximately equal to the height of the second tubular member 61.

The manifold 69 comprises a first tubular connecting portion 95, a second tubular connecting portion 97, and a connecting member 99 that connects said tubular connecting portions 95,97 to each other is at least partially flexible and preferably has the shape of a hose. The first tubular connecting portion 95 is knee-shaped and its connecting member 99 is attached to the first leg 101. The second leg 103 is of such a diameter that, in conjunction with the inner portion of the narrow second portion 93 of the sealing sleeve 87, forms a sealing connection. The second arm 103 is movable within the sealing sleeve 87 in a direction parallel to the major axis of the cylindrical wall 79 at least in the longitudinal direction of the beverage cartridge 3. The free end of the second arm 103 is cut obliquely to obtain a slightly sharp end 105. During the downward movement of the first tubular connecting portion 95, i.e. during the movement towards and towards the beverage cartridge 3, the end 105 penetrates, moves over the thin insulating membrane 45 and thus creates a loose connection between the interior of the beverage cartridge 3 and the channel 107 a seal between the throat 41 and the primary cap 47 that is at least waterproof in conjunction with the thin insulating membrane 45, as well as the seal between the second tubular connection portion 61 of the primary cap 47 and the wide first portion of the sealing sleeve 87 that is at least waterproof on the one hand, and the narrow second portion 93 of the sealing sleeve 87 and the other arm 103 of the first tubular connecting portion 95, on the other hand, allow the liquid contained in the beverage container 3 to pass only through the outlet duct 107 and prevent it from leaking into the pressure chamber U. beverages, so pollute equipment 1 for tapping beverages.

The second tubular connector portion 97 also includes a knee-shaped element by which the first section 109 is connected to the end of the connector 99 on the opposite side of the first tubular connector portion 95, while the second section 111 closes the free outlet opening 113. The label-shaped trigger element 115 forms a whole. or is at least attached to the second tubular connecting portion 97. This element simplifies handling of the second tubular connecting portion 97. The label-shaped trigger element 115 may include inscriptions, such as a brand or logo, a beverage cartridge content, delivery or expiration date, and alike. As will be explained in more detail below, the label-shaped trigger element 115 is always outside the beverage dispensing device 1 during use, so that said printing is visible from the outside. Of course, the identification elements can also be provided on the label-shaped trigger element 115 in another way, for example by grinding or milling.

-7EN 301666 B6

In the arrangement shown in FIG. 2, the secondary lid 67 and the distributor 69 are covered by an outer lid 116 that abuts the top wall of the ring closure 75 and thus protects the distributor 69 from contamination from the outside.

The beverage cartridge 3 can be placed in the first part 5 of the beverage dispensing machine as described below.

The beverage cartridge 3 is positioned such that its bottom 37 is located above the open portion of the pressure chamber 10 and moves vertically downwardly until the annular rim 75 contacts the top wall of the closure device L3. In this embodiment, the closure device 13 is designed in the form of closure segments 117 that can move outwardly horizontally against the spring pressure and which, upon reaching the outermost position, form a through hole sized to allow the circular closure 75 to be closed. The segments 117 have an inwardly upwardly facing end face 1.19 at the ends facing inwardly, which, in the case of vertical pressure exerted on this face 119 by the circular rim 75, causes the segments 117 to move outwardly and thereby pass the circular rim 75. After passing the circular rim 75 serving to close around the segments 117, these segments 117 are moved back to their initial position by spring pressure, thereby closing the beverage cartridge 3 in the pressure chamber 11. When the pressure chamber 11 is not pressurized, the full beverage cartridge 3 is surrounded from the outside by a space and bottom 37 As a result, there is a space between the upper part of the ring 75 to be closed and the bottom wall of the segments 117. Between the circumferential wall 9 and the ring rim 75 there is a sealing compartment 123 which is slightly shaped into a letter. "IN". The open portion of this sealing section 123 is oriented towards the pressure chamber 11, thereby increasing the sealing operation of the sealing section 123 during pressure build-up in the pressure chamber 11.

Upon insertion of the beverage cartridge 3 into the pressure chamber 11 in this manner, a substantial portion of the complementary member 65 extends outside the pressure chamber 11, allowing access to the label-shaped trigger element 115 at least outside the pressure chamber 11.

From the upper part of the circumferential wall 9, the overhang portion 125 extends approximately horizontally to one side of the beverage tapping device 1, and the overhang portion 125 includes a tubular portion 127 that extends approximately vertically from its underside. A channel comprising a second section 111 of the second coupling portion 97 is guided within the overhang portion 125 and the tubular portion 127, the outlet opening 113 being disposed adjacent, preferably outside, the free end of the tubular portion 127. By means of a tag-shaped trigger 115 the position of the second section 111 in this channel. In this state, the connecting member 99 extends approximately horizontally through the upper face of the overhanging portion 125 through a groove formed in the upper face.

By means of the pin 129, the cover 7 is connected to the first part 5 of the beverage dispensing device also on that side of the upper end of the circumferential wall 9 opposite the overhanging part 125. On the side of the cover adjacent to the tubular part 127 a handle 131 that is slidable between an approximately vertical and a tilted position. At the end of the handle 131 in which the vest 45 is attached to the housing 7 is an eccentric 133 adjacent to the coupling member 99. When the handle 133 is in the vertical position shown in Fig. 1, the coupling member 99 is closed by the eccentric 133 thereby channel 107 is closed. By moving the handle 131 to the stowed position, the engagement member 99 is at least partially released by the eccentric 133 such that the engagement member 99 reaches at least partially its original position and the channel 102 is at least partially released to release the beverage from the beverage cartridge 3. As a locking means not shown in the figure, it is possible to secure the cover 7 in the closed position.

While adjusting the position of the beverage cartridge 3 in the first portion 5 of the tapping device 1, the first tubular connecting portion 95 connects in the highest position completely above the thin insulating membrane 45.

2. When the cover 7 is closed, the first tubular connection portion 95 is pressed down or at least locked to prevent upward movement of the first tubular connection portion 95. In addition, when the cover 7 is closed, the control element 33 of the pump 17 is in the on state, thereby actuating the pump 7 while the safety valve 29 is closed, allowing the pressure in the pressure chamber 11 to increase. by filling it with said pressure medium, such as ambient air. In principle, it is possible to use different pressure media, for example water or carbon dioxide. Since the pressurized medium is not in contact with the beverage in the beverage cartridge 3 during use, the pressurized medium does not affect the quality of the beverage.

During the pressure build-up in the pressure chamber 11, which is only possible when the cover 7 is closed, the beverage container 3 moves upwards in the direction of the closing segments 117. This achieves an optimal sealing of the pressure chamber 11. In addition, during this vertical movement, the sharp end 105 of the first tubular connecting portion 95 is pushed through the thin insulating membrane 45, allowing the beverage to flow from the beverage cartridge 3 to the channel 107. This means that if the handle 131 is moved from its vertical position channel 107 and outlet port 113 such that it is possible to rotate a glass of beer, for example. A reservoir 135 is disposed adjacent the lower wall of the beverage dispensing device below the outlet opening 113, which is intended to retain the beverage spilled from the outlet opening 113, thereby preventing environmental contamination.

During use, the pressure is in the pressure chamber 11. raised by the pump J / 7 so that the wall of the beverage cartridge 3 is compressed to reduce its volume while the beverage is delivered through the channel 107 and the outlet port 113. It has surprisingly been found that the beverage cartridge 3 made of plastic of the above type is possible. fully compressed by pressure in the pressure chamber 11 such that it is possible to remove all of the beverage from the beverage cartridge 3 as described above. Since the complementary component 65 including its closure ring 75 is relatively distal from the neck 41, is secured below the segments 117, while the complementary member 65 is connected to the neck 41 via the primary lid 47, it is possible to deform the entire beverage cartridge 3 up to the secondary lid 67, including the deformation of its transition portion 39. Another advantage of this arrangement is that the secondary lid 67 is maybe However, the beverage cartridge 3 can be made of a soft material, while the secondary lid 67 in each case properly seals the pressure chamber 11. That is, the deformation or deflection of the beverage container 3 with respect to its complementary portion 65 has no effect on the sealing of the pressure chamber 11. The design of this complementary portion 65, precisely 35 of the insulating membrane 45 and the first tubular connecting portion 95 Chamber JJ. before the beverage container 3 is opened and during the start of the pump 17 an optimal closure of the pressure chamber 11 is ensured and the beverage container 3 is simultaneously opened. This complementary part 65 here constitutes at least a part of the wall of the pressure chamber Π. and therefore, in the absence of the beverage container 3 in the beverage tapping device 40, it is not possible to increase the pressure in the pressure chamber 11, which results in increased user safety. In addition, this provides the ability to control the sharp end 105 of the first tubular connecting portion 95 from outside the pressure chamber 11. Since the ring 75 serving to close is substantially distant from the outlet port 43, dimensionally different portions can be used for insertion into the complementary portion 65 the sealing effect between the closure portion 15 and the closure device 45, and the outlet opening 43 is always optimally positioned. The deformations resulting from the use of components with large differences in their dimensions are compensated by the deformation of the complementary part 65. That is, the closure device 13 can be simple and can be made of lightweight materials.

The design of the complementary component 65 and the first portion 5 of the beverage tapping device 1 with which it interacts provides the advantage that the beverage cartridge 3 can be inserted vertically into the beverage tapping device as the cover 7 is rotatably connected to the peripheral wall 9 of the device J. for beverage tapping, which further simplifies insertion of the beverage cartridge 3 and adjusting the position of the cover 7. The empty beverage cartridge 3 can be removed by means of a mechanical center 55 displacing the segments 117 outwardly so that it can be a complementary member 65

301666 B6 is removed with the beverage cartridge 3 emptied. Since the closing pressure acts on the segments 117 approximately perpendicular to the working direction of the springs of the segments 17, the tension of the segments 117 can be relatively low, allowing relatively easy adjustment from the outside. . After the beverage container 3 has been completely emptied, the pressure in the pressure chamber 11 drops. by means of a pump 17, and then it is possible to open the cover 7 and the compressed beverage cartridge 3 together with the complementary component 65 can be removed from the beverage tapping device 1 and placed, for example, in an appropriate device for recycling it. Since the cartridge 3 is compressed up to the complementary member 65, the empty beverage cartridge 3 of the present invention takes up very little space, which is advantageous in terms of logistics.

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FIG. 4 shows a replacement embodiment of the upper end of the beverage cartridge 3 of the present invention for use with the beverage tapping device 1 of FIG. 1. Identical parts have identical reference numerals to which the number 200 is added.

In this embodiment, the annular flange 275 for sealing is firmly connected to the bottom of the widening transition portion 239 of the beverage cartridge 203. The annular flange 275 for sealing is preferably a single unit with the beverage cartridge 203. In this embodiment, a primary lid 247 is provided. approximately in line with the primary lid 47 shown in FIG. 2. In this embodiment, the second tubular member 261 comprises at least partially an inner compartment such that the second tubular member 261 forms a sealing joint at the point of contact with the second arm 303 and ensures a stable position of the arm 303 of the first tubular connecting portion 295. This embodiment is structurally relatively simple, but the round flange 275 for closure should be at least of a rigid construction so that it cannot deform during use, or at least its deformation does not prevent a sufficient pressure seal. 211. This circular hem

2 75 for closing, it is possible to position relatively low with respect to the beverage cartridge 203, for example in the center thereof together with a locking device 317 which is also placed in a low position. When the beverage cartridge 203 is compressed, the portion A of the beverage cartridge 203 that is below the circular rim 275. is pushed upward as shown in dashed line in FIG. In this regard, moving the cylindrical wall of the lower portion A of the beverage container 30 inwardly relative to the cylindrical wall of the upper portion B of the beverage container 203 has the advantage that it is even better to push the entire lower portion A into the upper portion B thereby pushing the beverage out In this embodiment, the compressibility of the lower portion A is optimally utilized due to the relatively low inward resistance, and moreover, the relatively large portion of the expansion portion 239 is exerted optimally by the internal pressure of the beverage cartridge 203. The rounded rim 275 it must therefore be in contact with the locking device 317, which is done in a simple manner. It will be appreciated that the beverage cartridge 203 may be manufactured in a longer embodiment than that shown in FIG. 4. It will further be appreciated that in this embodiment, the circular rim 275 may also be positioned in a relatively high position and the beverage cartridge 203 is compressed above. said method, or is provided with a membrane or other separating device as described herein.

FIG. 5 illustrates another alternative embodiment of a beverage container 403 for use in the beverage tapping machine of the present invention, wherein the beverage container 403 is substantially formed of a material which, due to the working pressure in the pressure chamber, is substantially Parts do not deform. Corresponding parts have the same reference numerals plus 400. This beverage cartridge can be made substantially of metal. The beverage cartridge 403 is provided with a flexible membrane 444, the longitudinal edge of which is connected to the cylindrical wall 435 of the beverage cartridge 403, between the bottom 437 and the throat 441. The diaphragm 444 is flexible to the extent that in its first position of FIG. The lower diaphragm 444 divides the beverage container 403 into a pressure compartment 446 located between the diaphragm 444 and the bottom 437, and a storage compartment 448 located between the diaphragm 444 and the neck 444. In the case of a complete 5, the diaphragm 444 adjoins the bottom 437. The bottom 437 is provided with a pressure port 450 that preferably forms an outlet opening between the pressure chamber 446 and the surrounding environment. Thus, in the case of insertion of the beverage cartridge 403 of FIG

In the manner of the beverage tapping device 1, the pressure chamber 11 in direct contact with the pressure compartment 446 in the beverage cartridge 403 via the pressure port 450. Consequently, in the event of a pressure increase in the beverage tapping device 1, a portion of the pressurized medium is released. pressure chamber 44 into the pressure compartment 446 and at the same time the resilient diaphragm is displaced

444 in the direction of the throat 441. Similarly, if the channel 507 in the linking member 499 is released, the content of the storage compartment 448 is reduced and the beverage flows out of the beverage tapping device. The flexible diaphragm 444 may be displaced such that the content of the pressure compartment 446 is maximum and the content of the storage compartment 448 is minimal, preferably near zero. In this way, the storage compartment 448 can be emptied completely. The beverage cartridge 403 may also be constructed as shown in FIGS. 2 or 4. In the embodiment and position of the beverage cartridge membrane shown in FIG. 5, the detailed illustration is shown in FIGS. 8-16C and the respective parts of the detailed description. This beverage cartridge 403, also called a membrane barrel, provides, inter alia, the advantage that a beverage cartridge of this type can be used multiple times, which is environmentally advantageous. In addition, the deformable parts, which mainly include the membrane, are protected by the wall of the beverage cartridge during operations such as transportation and storage, thereby preventing damage to the beverage cartridge.

FIG. 6 further illustrates an alternative embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention comprising a beverage cartridge 503 that can be placed in a beverage tapping device 501 similar to that shown in FIG. 1. The beverage tapping device 501, particularly its peripheral wall 509, is shown here only schematically, but this is sufficient for a proper understanding of the invention. The beverage cartridge 503 comprises a cylindrical wall 535 and an expanding transition portion 539 where the cylindrical wall 535 is connected to the expanding transition portion 539 by means of vertical portions

500 of the wall slightly deflected outwardly relative to the cylindrical wall 535 and surrounding the beverage cartridge 503. The lower portion of the vertical wall portion 500 is disposed on the protruding edge 512 of the peripheral wall 509 so that the beverage cartridge 503 cannot slide downwards from the position shown in the picture. At the edge 512, a ring 514 is made which is made of a slightly resilient material, such as rubber, and the upper ring 516 and the lower ring 518 are formed therefrom, between which a pressure chamber 520 is formed. 516 and the lower annular rim 518 contact the outer side of the vertical wall portion and elastically deform, thereby hermetically sealing the pressure chamber 520. At least one pressure chamber 520 is located on the vertical wall portion and is preferably connected to the beverage cartridge 503 via a plurality of apertures 522. The filling chamber 521 is a pressure chamber

520 is connected to the pump 517, allowing air or other pressure medium to enter through the opening 519. The ring 514 is provided with a reinforcing profile 524 for greater stability in shape. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 6, the beverage cartridge 503 is completed with a relatively elastic partially deformable bag 544 made of foil, which is suspended or partially attached adjacent the outlet opening 43. This construction detail will be described in more detail below.

It has been found that deformable bottles of the above type may be used in place of the nonformable bag 544 in the embodiment shown in FIG. For the above reasons, the wall of the bag 544 or bottle is preferably substantially impermeable to oxygen. In addition, another advantage is that the wall of the beverage cartridge may be thin and made of a relatively inexpensive material, since only its partial oxygen impermeability is required and not its total impermeability. However, if the wall of the beverage cartridge is made of an oxygen-impermeable material, even greater protection of the beverage in the storage compartment is achieved. If desired, the beverage cartridge should be designed to allow replacement of the bag 544 or bottle, as in the above embodiment with the membrane shown in Figure 5.

In the embodiment shown schematically in FIG. 6, the interior of the beverage cartridge that is between the bag 544 and the cylindrical wall 535 can be filled with a pressure source through the apertures 522. This allows the bag 544 to be compressed to displace the beverage contained therein. included. Placing the through holes 522 near the widening portion allows the use of a beverage cartridge 503 of any length, limited only by the size of the beverage tapping device 501.

That is, beverage cartridges can be used with one beverage dispensing device 501

503 in different sizes. In use, an overpressure is created in the pressure chamber 520 to move the upper and lower edges 516 and 518 to move them more firmly against the vertical wall portion 500 of the beverage cartridge 503 for even better sealing, and more the necessary shape changes were achieved in a simpler way.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the neck 541 is attached to the upper end of the widening transition portion 539. In 541, a sliding coupling sleeve 552 is inserted, the downward movement of which is limited by a ridge stop 551 extending inwardly near the bottom of the neck 541 and by which the movement of the first edge 558 of the coupling sleeve 552 is stopped. Below the first edge

558 of the coupling sleeve 552 is located a second edge 554 to which the bag 544 is attached. The first edge 558 and the second edge 554 enter perpendicularly to the cylindrical wall 556 and form the outlet opening of the bag 544. On this cylindrical wall 556, a thin insulating membrane 545 is attached. which is located horizontally, parallel to both edges. Above this thin insulating membrane 545, a cylindrical wall 536 continues as a longitudinal cylindrical wall 556a and to its upper end is attached a flexible membrane 562 having a circular shape and an outer edge of which is fixed to the upper portion of the neck 541. It has a knee shape and is comparable to the first connecting portion 95 of FIG. 1. A connecting hose 599 is connected to the connecting member 595 to connect it to the tenoning means in the manner described above. The connecting member 595 is rigidly connected to the primary cap 547 which is secured to the neck 541 by a longitudinal edge located below the protrusion 549. The primary cap 547 consists of a closed upper face 564 extending above the resilient membrane 562. Above the cylindrical wall 556 of the coupling sleeve 552 the upper face 564 is curved upwards, resulting in a clearance between the membrane 562 and the lower portion of the upper face 564 when the coupling sleeve 552 is in its lowest position. The end of the fastener 595 adjacent the membrane 545 is sharp.

The apparatus shown in FIG. 6 can be used as follows. By means of the pump 517, the pressure medium is introduced through the pressure chamber 520 into the pressure space 511 between the bag 544 and the cylindrical wall 535 of the beverage cartridge 503, thereby causing an increase in pressure in the bag 544. The collar 552 is pushed upwards inter alia by the pressure exerted on the first rim 558 This activates a resilient diaphragm that moves upwardly against the bottom of the upper face 564 while the other end of the connector 595 pierces the thin insulating diaphragm 545, thereby releasing the space of the tube 599 that leads into the bag 544. By the diaphragm 562 and the priming 35 547, in particular its upper face 564, provides a watertight and airtight seal on the neck 544. This embodiment of the device according to the invention is particularly simple and practical.

FIG. 7 illustrates another alternative embodiment of the upper portion of the beverage cartridge 603 of the present invention disposed within the beverage dispensing device 601 similar to FIG. 1. Only those parts of the beverage dispensing device 601 and the beverage cartridge 603 are shown schematically. are necessary for a proper understanding of this embodiment. The other parts have been described in detail above.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7, the complementary member 665 consists of two parts, the first central portion 666 being attached to the beverage cartridge 603, while the second annular portion 668 is located near the peripheral wall 609 of the beverage dispensing device 601 and can be used during use. connected to the beverage tapping device 601 loosely or possibly rotatably, and this portion may close the beverage cartridge 603. Near the outlet opening of the beverage cartridge 50 of the bottle-shaped recess 603, a central portion 666 is secured in one way, for example by a primary and secondary lids. Along the outer edge, the central portion 666 is provided with a longitudinal edge 670 that faces downwardly and a second longitudinal edge 672 extends downwardly from its lower edge, which in addition is deflected outwardly. The second annular portion 668 is provided along its inner longitudinal edge with a sealing section 674 that seals the space around the longitudinal edges 670 and 672. From the sealing section 674 an inclined face 676 extends downwardly into

JU1000 BO of the second sealing section 678, located at the outer longitudinal edge of the second annular portion 668, which rests on the longitudinal peripheral wall 609 of the beverage dispensing device 601. By means of a locking device (not shown), in the manner illustrated, for example, in FIG. 1, it is possible to retain the complementary component 665 in the beverage tapping device 601 by interacting with the upper portion of the second annular portion 668.

An outer lid 716 is secured to the central portion 666 via an outlet device by means of resilient projections 680 on this central portion 666 that extend through openings in the outer lid 716. During positioning of the second annular portion 668 of the complementary component 665, this portion is pulled over the outer lid 716 and resilient the protuberances 680 are pushed inwardly by the resilient edge

682 located on the second annular portion 668 while releasing the outer lid 716. The advantage of this embodiment is that the beverage cartridge 603 can be gripped by its outer lid 716 while it is being positioned in the beverage tapping device 601 without being disconnected. This is because it is retained by the flexible protrusions 680. This allows easy handling of the beverage cartridge 5 while adjusting its position. In addition, the outlet device, especially its sharp end, is protected from premature use because it is protected by the outer lid 716 during positioning. The outer lid 716 cannot be removed before the beverage cartridge 603 is mounted in the beverage tapping device 601 by the second annular portion 668 complementary 665 and by means of the locking device 717, and on this outer lid 716, the interconnecting device can be fastened as described above, and the cover of the beverage tapping device 601 can then be closed. This ensures a hygienic and safe fit of the beverage cartridge 603. The securing device of the outer lid 716 of the beverage cartridge 603 is shown only schematically and can be designed in any suitable manner. The construction of the complementary component 665, which consists of two parts, has the advantage that the central part 666, which remains connected to the beverage cartridge 603, can be designed simply, inexpensively, does not have to be heavy and can be removed together with the beverage cartridge 603 while the second annular portion 668 may be made of a material such that it is reusable. This ensures better transmission and equalization of the forces occurring there. An advantage of this embodiment is that the beverage cartridge 603 is fully or partially replaceable.

An advantage of the beverage cartridge 3, 203, 403, 503, 603, 701, 801, 901 according to the present invention is that the outlet device can be supplied with the beverage cartridge 3, 203, 403, 503, 603, 701, 801, 901 and can be removed with it. That is, during use, the beverage in the beverage cartridge 3, 203, 403, 503, 603, 701, 801, 901 will not come into contact with portions of the beverage tapping device 1, 501, 601 other than by said outlet device. Thereby, contamination of the beverage dispensing device 1, 50j, 601 is simply prevented to such an extent that during cleaning of the beverage cartridge 3, 203, 403, 503, 603, 701, 801, 901, no cleaning work is required, which is convenient user friendly and environmentally friendly, as no cleaning agents are needed. In addition, changes in the taste of the beverage caused by the replacement of the beverage cartridge 3, 203, 403, 503, 603, 701, 801,901 are prevented if its content differs from the content that will be further used in this apparatus. Another advantage is the constant direct connection between the label-shaped element 115 and the contents of the beverage cartridge 3, 203, 403, 503, 603, 701, 801, 901 so that it is always clear to the user which beverage will be the device 1, 501, 601. beverage draft, limiting errors in use. Of course, at least a portion of the outlet device is suitable for reuse.

Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the beverage cartridge 701 of the present invention. The beverage cartridge 701 has a barrel shape and consists of a cartridge body 702 made up of a longitudinal cylindrical wall 703, a bottom 704, and an expanding transition portion 705. The cartridge body 702 is almost completely airtight and waterproof, except for the connecting hole 706, which will be more thorough described and which is located in the bottom 704 and at the outlet opening 707 in the expanding transition portion 705.

Between the bottom 704 and the expanding transition portion 705, a diaphragm 708 is attached to the cylindrical wall 703 separating the connecting aperture 706 from the outlet aperture 707. Initially, i.e. before being inserted into the beverage cartridge 701, the diaphragm 708 preferably has a circular shape

- 13GB 301666 B6 and has a larger diameter than the diameter of the cylindrical wall 703. The diaphragm 708 divides the beverage cartridge

701 to the lower pressure chamber 709 and the upper storage chamber 710,

In Figure 8, the storage chamber 710 is filled as much as possible with the beverage to be tapped, whereby the diaphragm 708 is pushed against the portion of the cylindrical wall 703 that protrudes below it and against the bottom 704 through the connecting aperture 706. the walls of the beverage cartridge 701 without being subjected to greater stress.

At the top of the beverage cartridge 701 there is a closure device in the form of a relatively large closure cap 711, which in this embodiment overlaps the entire expanding transition portion 705. The closure cap 711 has a front top 719 and an annular cover 712 near its free longitudinal. For example, the annular cover 712 is provided with an annular groove 713 that faces inwardly and in which the annular edge 714 of the beverage cartridge 701 is fixed. The annular edge 714 is formed, for example, by a portion of the wall deflected outwards at a certain distance below the widening transition portion 705. 714 is shaped so that the closure lid 711 cannot be detached from the beverage cartridge 701 without damaging the lid 711 and / or the edge 714. For this purpose, the annular edge 714 can be provided with a sharp portion

715, which is cut into the groove 713 during the vertical movement of the closure lid 711. The edge 714 can of course be placed on the lid 711 and the wall 7 of the beverage cartridge 701 can be provided with the groove 713. or to the lid 711. If the lid 711 has a smaller diameter or other shape than the beverage cartridge 701, it is furthermore possible to seal the lid 711 and the beverage cartridge 701 by gluing or other means. It is important, but not necessary, that the lid 711 cannot be detached from the beverage cartridge 701 and then reattached thereto without recognizing that the lid 711 for a certain period of time.

2? there was no time on the beverage cartridge 701, thereby ensuring that the space 716 beneath the lid 711 is isolated from the environment for the entire period prior to its use as described below.

One of the ends of the flexible outlet hose 717 is connected to the outlet opening 707 and the other end of the outlet hose 717 is provided with a connection device 718 designed to connect this end to the beverage tapping device T described in more detail below. The top face 719 of the lid 11 is provided with an opening 720 in which a detachable cover 722 for the opening 720 is secured by a plurality of sealing edges 721 (FIG. 11). The outlet hose 717 is mounted on that part of the cover 722 is disposed adjacent the connector 718. After removing a portion of the cover 722 from the opening 720 by tearing off the sealing edges 721, the outlet hose

The hose 717 may be placed in the lid 711 separately from the portion of the housing 722, and by removing the portion of the housing 722, the hose may be passed through the opening 720. In this embodiment, there are a large number of variations, also related to the position of the opening 720 in the lid 711. Due to the connection of the housing part 722 and the outlet hose 717 near the coupling component 718, this housing part 722 is always visible in the beverage tapping device. This portion of the cover 722 may be provided with useful information such as information about the contents of the beverage cartridge 701, a mark and an advertisement that will always remain visible during use of the beverage dispensing device.

Since the opening 720 is completely closed by a portion of the cover 722 before use and the outlet device 77, 717, 718 is placed under the lid 711, manipulation of the contents of the beverage cartridge and / or the outlet device is prevented.

The beverage cartridge shown in Figure 8 can be used as follows: The bottom 4 of the beverage cartridge 701 is connected to a pressure source 724 - see Figure 10, for example by placing it in the base portion 725, whereby the pressure tube 726 is automatically connected to the connection port 706 For this purpose, the connection opening 706 may be slightly raised above the bottom 704, thereby forming a bulge 727 in the bottom 704. Preferably, the connection opening 706 includes a non-return valve or similar valve device that is automatically opened or closed on connection or disconnection of pressure tube 726, which prevents gas leakage; or

-14GB JU1666 Bb fluid from the pressure chamber during disconnection of the beverage cartridge 701. Similarly, a pressure tube 726 is provided with similar devices. The beverage cartridge 701 is secured to a portion or base portion 725, for example by clamps or screw connection 728 to the beverage cartridge wall 701. .

In Fig. 10, the screw connection 728 is positioned adjacent to the circular periphery of the bottom of the beverage cartridge 701 so that only the beverage cartridge 701 having a corresponding complementary portion can be placed on the bottom base portion 725. In Fig. 10A, the screw connection 728 surrounds the end of the connection tube 726 in the concavity 727.

That is, the screw connection 728 has a relatively small area, as the forces acting on the connection are relatively small. Moreover, the advantage of this arrangement is that beverage cartridges 701 of other diameters can be connected in the same way to the same device. Of course, it is also possible to use other coupling devices, for example, a bayonet closure, a tufting device and the like known in the art.

When the beverage cartridge 701 is connected to a pressure source 724, it is possible to divide a portion of the cover 722 and the flexible hose 717 is partially pulled out of the space outside the lid 711. The coupling device 718 may be connected to the respective outlet of the beverage tapping device T. This system is provided with a shut-off device to prevent leakage of the beverage cartridge 701 before the beverage tapping device 1 is connected to the beverage tapping device 1. This shut-off device is located in the coupler 718 or in the hose 717 and is automatically lowered when the hose 71? attached or in case of pressure increase in the beverage cartridge 701, but it is nevertheless preferable that the closing device be positioned adjacent to the outlet opening as far as possible. This outlet may be designed as shown in Figure 9A. This embodiment will be described in more detail below. In the event that a portion of the cover is broken, access to the shut-off device 731 is possible through an opening 720. This shut-off device 731 can be displaced downwardly to release the outlet flow orifice. In this position, the closure device 731 can be attached by slightly twisting or deforming it. It is also possible to use a closing device

731, which is commissioned by removing a portion of the cover 722. This embodiment can be realized in many ways. Suitable closure devices 731 are already known in the art. The outlet hose 717 is suitably connected to the cock 730 of the beverage tapping device 1, and for this purpose, for example, an instantaneous response device operating in cooperation with the instantaneous response device of the cock 730 is used as the coupling device 718.

Various gases or liquids can be used as pressure carriers. The gas can be supplied, for example, from a reservoir or from a pressure line system or by means of a pump 729 in the manner shown in FIG. 9.

When the pressure chamber 709 is filled with the pressure medium, the diaphragm 708 partially deflects in the direction of the outlet opening 707, thereby reducing the volume of the storage chamber 710. This results in an increase in beverage pressure in the storage chamber 710. The beverage in the storage chamber 710 can be maintained at the desired pressure by the pressure medium supplied to the pressure chamber 709 during further deflection of the diaphragm 708. In this way, it is possible to pressurize the diaphragm 708 to empty the storage chamber 710 until the diaphragm 708 adheres to the inner side of the top of the cylindrical wall 703 and to the widening transition portion 705 that overlaps the outlet port 707 - see Figure 10. the volume of the pressure chamber

7 09 and the minimum storage chamber volume 710.

Because the pressure increase in the storage chamber 710 is performed by deflecting the diaphragm 708 by the pressure medium in the pressure chamber 709 and thereby preventing the pressure medium from contacting the tap beverage. This prevents the beverage from being affected by the pressure source. This is particularly important in the case of beverages containing carbon dioxide and the concomitant use of gas as a source of pressure, e.g.

- 15GB 301666 B6 for example in the case of beer. Thus, the amount of carbon dioxide contained in the beer is not affected by the pressure medium. In addition, there is no dilution of the beverage when a liquid, especially water, is used as a pressurized medium.

Thus, when the storage chamber 710 is completely emptied - see Fig. 10, the pressure chamber 709 can also be emptied, for example by means of the pump 729's reverse. This is particularly advantageous in the case of using pressurized fluid, since the weight of this pressure medium is considerable. At the same time, the membrane 708 is moved to its original position. In addition, this allows the same pressure medium to be used for another beverage cartridge 701.

The diaphragm 708 is preferably attached to a wall at a distance A from the expanding transition portion 705 which is slightly greater than the distance B between the edge of the diaphragm 708 and the bottom 704.

In the position shown in Figure 10, where the storage chamber 710 is nearly empty, the membrane 708 is preferably slightly resiliently tensioned. Thus, it is guaranteed that in this position the membrane 708 is fully extended, thereby preventing the beverage from flowing between the membrane 708 and the inner portion of the storage chamber 210.

The diaphragm 708 may be made of an almost flat disk of rubber, plastic, and the like having the same cross-section at all locations. Advantageously, the structure of the membrane 708 is such that the thickness of its inner portion is somewhat greater so that the membrane 708 deforms more on the inner portion during tensioning. Thereby, the possible flow of the beverage is even more effectively reduced. Further, the diaphragm 708 may be provided with protrusions and depressions 732, similar to the radial depression shown in FIG. 13. These protrusions and / or depressions 732 prevent the membrane 708 from sticking to the wall of the beverage cartridge 701 and also prevent leakage of the beverage.

Fig. 12 shows another embodiment of the device according to the invention with a beverage cartridge 701 which is completely inserted into the beverage tapping device T. The beverage tapping device T comprises a cuboid-shaped receptacle 740 for receiving a part and a hatch 741. which, for example, is pivotally connected to the receptacle 740 and which can be secured to this part by means of a clamping device 1742. The receptacle 740 has a cylindrical inner space approximately the diameter of that portion of the beverage cartridge 701 positioned below the lid 711. 740 is a first annular groove 742 for accommodating a clamping device 1742 on the inside and having a similar shape to the free longitudinal edge 743 of the annular cover 712 of the lid 71b This free longitudinal edge 743 is convex with respect to the outer side, similar to the annular edge 714 If it is The reservoir 701 disposed in the receptacle 740 is a portion of a convex shape at least watertight to the first annular groove used to accommodate the clamping device 1742. The flap 741 has a shape therein which provides sufficient space to accommodate the lid 711 and is provided along the side facing the receiving portion in use, an annular groove 745 that fits precisely into the upper portion of the convex shape of the lid 711. In this way, it is possible to fit the beverage cartridge 701 into the beverage tapping device T so that the shape of the two articles coincides well with each other. 701, which is located below the lid 711 and surrounding part, the enclosure 740 creates a closed space.

Next to the bottom of the receptacle 740 is a pressurized fluid supply tube 747 extending into the space between the beverage cartridge 701 and the receptacle 740, preferably near the connection opening 706 of the beverage cartridge 701. After introduction of the pressurized medium, it is conveyed to the pressure chamber 709. As this part is closed by the receptacle 740, it can be made of thin materials, since the receptacle 740 sufficiently supports the wall 703 and thus prevents damage. The hatch 741 is provided with an opening

746, through which the outlet hose is passed before or after closing the lid 741

717 such that the coupling device 716 is accessible from the outside. In the embodiment shown in Fig. 12, the tap 730 is located on the hatch 741 and is coupled to a lever 748 controlling the coupling device 716.

In the illustrated embodiment, the tap 730 used is a tap intended to be mounted on a hose.

The tap 730 includes a lever 748 connected by a pin 749 to a arm 750 protruding from the hatch

- 16GB 301666 B6

From pin 749, a pressure arm 751 extends obliquely toward the flap 741, which is rigidly connected to lever 748. Transverse to the pressure arm 751 and arm 750, the pressure roller 752 extends from the free end of the pressure arm 750. When the lever 748 is rotated The free end of the arm 750 is provided with a bent outlet tube 753 at the end of which is a lever 748 which is located on the side of the pin 749 at a greater distance from the cap 741. After insertion of the beverage cartridge 701 into the beverage dispensing machine. T, the outlet hose 717 is passed through the hatch 741 and positioned below the pressure roller 752 on the arm 750, and the coupling 716 is connected to the connecting counterpart 754. When the lever 748 is in the vertical position, the hose 717 is closed by the pressure roller 752 the lever 748 in approximately horizontal position, the hose 717 is released and the beverage can be dispensed through I know the hose 717 and the discharge tube 753 from the beverage cartridge 701, for example, into a glass placed under the outlet tube. This beverage dispensing device described herein as an example is relatively inexpensive and easy to manufacture. Of course, other types of beverage dispensing equipment may also be used. The beverage tapping device may be provided with a regulation of the filling of the pressurized medium into the pressure chamber, guided by a foam based on an adjustable desired tapping pressure, depending, for example, on the pressure in the outlet hose 717 or in the storage chamber 710.

The top face 719 of the lid 711 is preferably flat and flat. The advantage of this embodiment lies in the possibility of placing the beverage cartridge 1 on the lid 711 without having to be flat on the bottom of the beverage cartridge, with the addition that this part can be designed to support a full beverage cartridge I. beverage container 1, which is advantageous in terms of resistance to deformation. Since the lid 711 overlaps the widening transition portion 705, the widening transition portion 705 may have any uneven shape, for example, double curved. This achieves the desired appearance.

In the case of relatively large beverage cartridges, such as 10.25 or 50 liter drums, the beverage cartridge is preferably made to be placed on the underside. If such barrels are used, the free arrangement of the beverage cartridge 701 is preferred prior to their attachment in the beverage dispensing device as shown in FIG. 12. In addition, for such relatively large barrels, another type of lid whose span does not exceed the entire upper portion For barrels of this size, it is preferred to use joints such as are common in beer barrels. Although these kegs are known only with a connecting tube, the inlet tube of the kegs can also be replaced by a bypass tube that extends from the top of the keg to the pressure chamber and permits use with existing beverage tapping devices. It is also possible to use a lid which, for example, only covers the outlet opening 707 and seals it in a known manner, or is designed not to function as a seal. The lid may not be used at all. There are a large number of possible variants and designs for this case.

FIG. 9A schematically illustrates one detail of an embodiment of a shut-off device 731. The shut-off device 731 consists of a piston 760 provided with a cover plate 761 which seals the bottom opening 707 in the closed position. A rod 762 extends from the cover plate 761 into the space 716 through the outlet opening 707. A portion of the rod 762 is flat and has an arm 763 on each part. The outlet opening 707 is provided with two grooves 764 capable of accommodating a flattened arm.

7 63 so that the cover plate 761 overlaps the outlet opening 707. The cover plate 761 is compressed in this position by the spring 765. To open the beverage cartridge, the bar 762 is pressed downwards in the direction of the bottom 704 and then rotated so that the arms 763 they are spaced in relation to the grooves 764 in the manner shown by the broken line in Fig. 9A. This creates an opening 766 along the cover plate 761 through which the beverage flows from the storage chamber 710 to the outlet hose 717. In this position, the piston 760 is released and the arms 763 are urged by the spring 765 against the expanding portion 705 near the grooves 764. 731 under normal conditions covered by the lid 711, there is no risk of accidentally loosening the opening 766.

In an alternative embodiment shown in Fig. 9B, the lid 711 is connected to the beverage cartridge

701 by means of an internal screw thread located in the sleeve 767 projecting from the upper face

301666 06 of the surface 719 and by means of an external screw thread on the neck 768 around the outlet opening 707, the annular groove 713 being designed to allow a slight vertical movement of the lid

711 with respect to the beverage container, and it is impossible to remove the two threads which are always tightly connected. A flexible hose 717 is attached next to the upper part of the sleeve. After the lid 711 has been completely screwed in as shown in the left part of Fig. 9B by a broken line, the connecting hose 717 is closed by a neck 768. When the lid 711 is completely unscrewed up to the annular groove 713 With the annular rim 714 as shown in solid line in Fig. 9B, the connecting hose 717 above the neck 768 is connected to the outlet opening 707 and thereby allows the beverage to be tapped. If desired, the lower edge of the annular cover 712 may be provided with a tear-off edge, which is torn off when the lid 711 is unscrewed and acts as an additional sealing element.

In the embodiments shown in the drawings, the membrane 708 is attached to the inner portion of the cylindrical wall 703 of the beverage cartridge. For this purpose, the membrane 708 may, for example, be glued or fixed by means of a circular clamp and the like. In an embodiment not shown, the beverage cartridge consists of two parts which can be attached to each other by, for example, clamps or screws, or by gluing or welding. A diaphragm 708 may be positioned between the two halves. To this end, it is possible to attach a ring clamp to one of the two beverage cartridge halves for attaching the diaphragm 708 located between the two portions of said beverage cartridge. This embodiment has the advantage that the membrane 708 may be in a fixed position and, moreover, is accessible for inspection, repair or replacement at least when the two parts of the beverage cartridge can be separated from each other.

The beverage cartridge 701 of the present invention allows cleaning and filling in a conventional manner. For cleaning purposes, the beverage cartridge 701 may be connected via a connecting orifice to, for example, a pressure source, such as a water supply, while a drain line may be connected to the outlet orifice. The two parts can be filled alternately so that when filling, the opposite chamber is always emptied by the respective movement of the diaphragm. This removes impurities from the beverage cartridge 701 and the diaphragm 708 is also cleaned. Any damage to the diaphragm 708 results in a pressure drop and mixing of the pressure medium with the flushing means. Filling of the glass chamber 30 with a beverage can be effected by means of an outlet.

FIG. 9C illustrates a replacement beverage cartridge according to the present invention in which the barrel-shaped beverage cartridge 701 is comprised of a beverage cartridge body 702 on whose upper side of the longitudinal cylindrical wall 703 is a widening housing-shaped portion 705 that is fastened over this upper longitudinal edge by, for example, a known flashing method. Between the cap-shaped expanding portion 705 and the longitudinal cylindrical wall 703, the upper wall of the diaphragm 708 is attached. The diaphragm 708 may be made, for example, of a thin film and may cover the entire inner wall of the beverage container body 702. This embodiment is particularly suitable for disposable drums, but reusable is also possible. To produce the barrel shown in Fig. 9C, manufacturing techniques such as drawing, indentation and bending are used.

Figure 14 shows an alternative embodiment of the beverage cartridge 801 of the present invention in which the corresponding parts have corresponding reference numerals. The beverage container 801 consists of a closed wall 803 and a bottom 804, with a piston 808 extending from the wall 803 parallel to the bottom 804, wherein the longitudinal wall of the piston is connected to the inner portion of the longitudinal wall so as to be tight and allow movement . The piston 808 separates the chamber 809 adjacent to the bottom 804 from the secondary storage chamber 810. A screw shaft 830 extends through the opening 806 in the bottom 804 of the beverage cartridge 801, the first end of which is connected to the bottom of the piston 808 rotate it in the direction of arrow R using a suitable device, for example an electric motor. The bottom 804 is provided with a nut 831 into which a threaded screw shaft 830 extends. Rotation of shaft 830 in nut 831 causes vertical movement of piston 808 in the direction of arrow P, thereby increasing chamber 809 while decreasing chamber 810, or vice versa. At its upper end, the screw shaft 830 is coupled to the piston 808 so that the shaft 830 can rotate about its longitudinal axis and relative to the piston 808.

-18GB JU1G00 Bó Even if the parallel movement of piston 808 and shaft 830 is not possible, this allows for direct follow-up of the movements of shaft 830 and piston 808.

Figure 15 schematically illustrates another alternative embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention, particularly suitable for use in hotels, restaurants, bars and the like, having a relatively limited flow of tapped beverage and allowing the beverage to be cooled. Corresponding parts have corresponding reference numerals preceded by the numeral 9. In this embodiment, the coupling device 918 of the outlet hose 917 is connected to a so-called serial cooling device 980, for example a flow heat exchanger 981 connected to the cooling device 982. 918, a connecting tube 983 is provided to communicate with a serial refrigeration device 980 and a beverage dispensing device 930 similar to that used in hotels or canteens. In the above manner, a pressure medium is supplied to the pressure chamber of the beverage container 901 by means of a pump 929. The beverage to be tapped from the beverage cartridge 901 is passed through a serial refrigeration device

980, where its temperature is adjusted or maintained. By means of the serial cooling device 980 it is possible to cool or maintain the temperature of the beverage, especially beer, to approximately 5 to 9 ° C, or between 6 to 7 ° C, so that even with uncooled beverage container 901 and relatively long tubes 917 and 983 optimal temperature. Accurate control of the temperature of the beverage, especially in tubes 917 and 983, is of great hygienic importance. If the beverage cartridge 901 is placed in the cooling device 980 at a relatively high temperature, the beverage can still be tapped directly and at the correct temperature by the device shown in Fig. 15 in such a way that after the time required the beverage container 901 has been cooled to the correct temperature, the serial refrigeration device 980 can be switched off or, if necessary, kept on, which is advantageous especially when the outlet tubes are

9 1 7 and 983 quite long. Of course, it is possible to use an additional or other serial refrigeration device 980. The serial refrigeration device 980 may be designed such that the beverage to be tapped is in direct contact with the fixed parts of the refrigeration device 980, or by being guided through the device e.g. this facilitates indirect heat exchange. The cooling efficiency in this case will be somewhat lower, but from a hygienic point of view, this embodiment is preferable.

Since the use of the device according to the invention means that the draft beverages, especially the beer and the pressure source are separated, it is possible without complications associated with controlling the pressure in the beverage cartridge and the flow rate of the beverage during tapping a refrigeration device in which the beverage cartridge and the serial cooling equipment. If the pressure chamber pressure over the entire temperature range of the beverage in the beverage container, for example between 5 and 30 ° C, is higher than the equilibrium pressure of the pressure medium contained in the beer, and if the pressure chamber pressure is kept constant, in that the constant flow of the beverage is achieved independently of the temperature at which the beverage is stored. The flow control provided by the cooling coil of the series cooling device 980 has the advantage that it reduces the need for pressure control by twisting the flow in the line or tap. The places where the flow is bent are difficult to clean and are a source of infection.

Since the movement of the beverage in the beverage dispensing device is unidirectional, unlike conventional tapping, harmful bacteria or air is prevented from entering the stored beverage due to bidirectional movement of the beverages in which bacteria and air are directly admitted into the beverage head storage chambers. Due to the cooling of the whole device, any bacteria, if any, reproduce slowly. This has the effect of extending the shelf life of the package to 3 to 6 weeks with lower cleaning requirements for the beverage dispensing device, which can be carried out, for example, two to four times a year. Cylinders containing carbon dioxide are no longer required to operate the device of the present invention, but nothing prevents the use of CO ₃ as a pressure medium, although this pressure medium is not preferred.

FIG. 16 illustrates another alternative embodiment of the apparatus of the present invention, which comprises a beverage cartridge 901 disposed in a cuboid-shaped receptacle 940 for the apparatus of FIG.

The dispenser 940 is shown only schematically. The beverage cartridge 901 has a bottom 904, a vertical cylindrical longitudinal wall 903 and a widening portion 905, which in this embodiment is disposed on the flange of the longitudinal wall 903 and includes an outlet port 907. The vertical portion 905a of the widening portion 905 is circumferentially apertures 906 for connecting a pressure source 929 via a connecting tube 926. For this purpose, the receptacle 940 is provided with a resilient ring 990. This ring 990 comprises two finger-shaped edges 991 inwardly between which a chamber 992 is formed. In use, the edges 991 above and below the connection holes 906 abut the vertical portion 905a of the widening portion 905, and these edges ^e 991 are resiliently deformed to provide an airtight connection to the widening portion 905. This structure is advantageous because by increasing the pressure in chamber 992 the edges 991 are firmly pressed against the expanding portion 905a. This further improves the seal. Due to the position of the connection openings 906, which are located near the upper end of the beverage cartridge 901, the beverage cartridge 901 can have any length that is only limited by the need to be accommodated in the receptacle 940 without changing the height of the connection hole 907. Therefore, small-volume beverage cartridges, such as 1.5 liters, as well as larger-volume beverage cartridges, such as 5 liters or more, can be placed in the same apparatus. The device according to the invention can also be used with beverage cartridges having a large volume, for example 10, 25 or 50 liters, which are particularly suitable for use in hotels, restaurants, cafes, etc.

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 16, the storage compartment 910 consists of a relatively flexible bag 908 or a collapsible plastic bottle suspended or at least attached near the outlet port 907. By introducing the pressure medium through the supply tube 926 and the connection ports 906, the bag 908 is compressed in use; thus, the beverage is forced out of the storage compartment 910 while increasing the pressure chamber. The pouch 908 may be connected by a cylindrical longitudinal wall 903 at a plurality of locations on its periphery in such a way as to be compressed towards its center, thereby further ensuring emptying of the storage compartment 910. Although in the illustrated embodiment the beverage cartridge consists of two Of course, it is possible for it to be one-piece, for example in the case of a bottle or beverage container 901 in which the storage compartment 910 has the shape of a bag or bottle.

Adjusting the position of the connecting holes 906 near the upper end of the beverage cartridge 901, or at least at a greater distance from the bottom 904 in the longitudinal wall 903 or the widening portion 905, is also a way to derive various embodiments with the membrane 708 described The same applies to the position of the connecting holes 706, 906, which of course are open to the side of the diaphragm 708 or the bag 908 facing the pressure part. In addition, the bag 908 may also be used in such embodiments where the connection opening 906 is located at the bottom.

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 16, the beverage cartridge 901 may be enclosed in the receptacle 940 by means of arms 914, which is comparable to the embodiment shown in Fig. 12, while other methods of storage may be achieved, for example, by attaching the beverage cartridge 901 to a cylindrical wall. Combinations of individual embodiments of the invention are all within the scope of the invention. It is particularly advantageous to be able to place various different beverage cartridges 701, 801, 901, pressure sources, cooling devices and the like in the apparatus of FIG. 15 as described above.

From the device according to the present invention, a beverage cartridge can be reused, which allows for refilling, while the outlet device can be partially or completely disabled after use. This is particularly important in terms of hygiene. However, at least a portion of the output device can be reused after thorough cleaning. This is particularly important in terms of environmental protection.

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 16, the beverage in the beverage cartridge is enclosed in a bag 908.

An advantage of this embodiment is that the bag 908 can be made of oxygen-impermeable material and the wall of the beverage container 908 can be made of oxygen-permeable plastic, if necessary. Such an embodiment can be economically advantageous since a non-expensive material can be used to produce it.

In addition, it is possible to design a double-walled bag with at least one connecting aperture 906 located between the inner and outer walls of the bag in the pressure chamber 911. This allows the use of a relatively thin and flexible wall of the beverage container because the pressure source pressure will be limited by the outer wall, beverage containers. 16A to 16C show three possible embodiments of such double-walled bags.

io

FIG. 16A illustrates, for example, a blow molded bag 908 which is provided with a film on the inside and surrounded by an outer bag 908B. One or both of the bags 908A.B may be multilayered depending on the strength required. A pressure space 911 is formed between the inner bag 908A and the outer bag 908B, and surrounds the inner bag 908A.

Fig. 16B shows an embodiment in which the bag 908 is formed by three layers 908C, 908D and 908E joined together to form two chambers 910 and 911. When the pressure medium is introduced into the space between the first layer 908C and the second layer 908D the volume of the pressure chamber 911 increases, and the beverage is dispensed from the storage compartment 910. The second layer 908D and the third layer

9 08E may, for example, form part of a cylindrical profile to which the first layer is attached

908C. Near the bottom, the three layers are connected to each other and can additionally be attached to the wall of the beverage cartridge or to the bottom, thereby fixing the bag 908 in the beverage cartridge.

In the embodiment shown in Fig. 16C, the bag 908 is composed of four layers 908F-1. To this end, for example, two concentric cylindrical profiles closed near the bottom may be formed, while the inner sides of the outer layers 908F and 9081 are joined to the outer sides of the inner layers 908G and 908H at the top of the structure. Thus, such a bag may consist of four layers of foil. Between the layers 908G and 908H there is a storage compartment 910 surrounded by a pressure space 91_1 formed between the layers 908F and 9081. By feeding the pressure medium to the pressure space 911, the storage compartment 910 is compressed, which results in the beverage contained therein. The bag 908 can in this case also be attached to the bottom and / or to the longitudinal wall so that it cannot move in relation to the beverage container 901. Again, the individual walls can be multilayered for the above reasons.

In particular, the embodiments shown in FIGS. 16b and 16c allow the filling of the beverage cartridge containers in a continuous manner. For this purpose, a tubular profile, the length of which is considerable in relation to the length of the bag, can be filled, and this profile can be clamped at appropriate places to form bags with the respective beverage. In addition, this method prevents air from entering the bag. Of course, other methods of filling are also possible.

The present invention is not limited to the embodiments described and illustrated in the figures. These embodiments have many variants.

For example, the beverage cartridge of the present invention may be provided with a cylindrical neck that faces slightly inwardly and limits the overall height of the beverage cartridge. Furthermore, it is possible to use a beverage container having a filling opening remote from the outlet opening, for example located near the bottom of the beverage container. This makes it possible to manufacture the beverage container before filling it with the beverage, while a thin insulating membrane may already be part of the beverage container. The wall of the beverage container may be provided with deformation zones, for example faceted or circular or striped, which in use determine the direction of the ongoing deformations of the beverage container caused by pressure build-up in the pressure chamber. Also, the beverage cartridge can be compressed in a preferred direction. Furthermore, different parts such as the primary and secondary lids of the first coupling part, the coupling part and the second coupling part may also be integrated with each other. Although only a beverage dispensing device intended to accommodate only one beverage container is shown, embodiments are possible where two or more beverage cartridges are in one beverage dispensing device, preferably side by side in one or more beverage containers. pressure chambers.

In this case, the degree of emptying of the individual beverage cartridges is determined by the pressure in each of the pressure chambers during use and by the rate of withdrawal from the individual beverage cartridges.

Of course, mechanical pressure means can be used instead of or simultaneously with the pressure medium by which the beverage container can be compressed or the diaphragm deflected in the drum provided with the diaphragm. When the aforementioned non-deformable container is used, the membrane may be bag-shaped and may be attached to the neck of the beverage cartridge or at least in proximity thereof.

The beverage container 1 may also have a different shape, for example a polygon with a convex ending, where the lid, when used, may also have different shapes. Moreover, the lid can also be attached to the beverage cartridge 1 in various suitable ways. The beverage container 1 should be able to be attached to the pressure source in various ways and any suitable pressure carrier may be used.

The membrane should be made of such an elastic material that, in a relaxed position, it is located between the walls of the beverage cartridge and forms, for example, an area close to the plane. However, the diaphragm may be positioned in any position in which it separates the pressure chamber from the storage compartment. The pressure medium coupling means and the exit device coupling means may be arranged in other ways and at positions other than those described, for example, they may be located near the top wall of the beverage container provided with a channel to pass the pressure source into the pressure chamber. Such a channel may, for example, be located in the described storage portion. Beer is mentioned as a draft beverage in the description. It will be appreciated that other types of beverages, such as soft drinks and other alcoholic beverages, may also be placed in the beverage cartridge. Different beverages may be provided in side-by-side storage chambers in a single beverage cartridge.

These and other similar variations are within the scope of this invention.

Claims (40)

PATENT CLAIMS A beverage storage and tapping assembly comprising a beverage tapping device (1) comprising a fluid outlet device, a beverage container (3) for liquids, in particular for beer or soft drinks, tapped by a beverage tapping device (1) and pressure A chamber (11) filling the space between the beverage cartridge (3) and the beverage dispensing device (1) in use, which communicates with a pump (17) for filling it with a pressurized medium and thereby expelling fluid from the beverage cartridge (3) contacting the fluid with the pressure medium, characterized in that the pressure space is at least partially limited and separated from the surrounding space by the closing portion (15, 65) of the beverage container (3) 45 at a distance from the outlet opening (43) of the beverage cartridge (3), the outlet opening (43) of the beverage cartridge (3) being outside the pressure chamber (11). Assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the closure part (15, 65) comprises a secondary lid (67) covering the beverage cartridge (3) at a certain distance from the filling and / or 50, the secondary lid (67) being seated on the beverage tapping device (1) by a sealing connection. Assembly according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the beverage container (3) has the shape of a bottle or barrel and comprises a transition portion (39) with an outlet opening (43), closing the portion (15) with a is located in an extension of the longitudinal edge of the transition portion (39) lying on the opposite side of the transition portion (39) than the outlet opening (43). Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing part (15) is firmly connected to or forms a unit with the beverage cartridge (3). Assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the closure part (15) is disposed in a complementary part (65) which is mounted on the beverage cartridge (3), or at least on a part thereof surrounding the outlet opening (43). in particular at the neck (41) of the outlet and of the opening (43). An assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the beverage cartridge (3) is non-deformable by the pressure generated when used in the pressure chamber (11), the pressure chamber (11) being at least partially located in the beverage cartridge (3), inside which 15, the at least one pressure-deformable portion is separately formed, a fluid storage compartment being tapped from the pressure chamber (11). The assembly of claim 6, wherein the deformable portion is a membrane (444, 708) or bag (544). Assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that the deformable part is in the form of a bag (544, 908) or bottle, wherein at least the sleeve of the deformable part is connected to the beverage container (3) preferably at said outlet opening (43) or in near it. 25 Assembly according to any one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the outside of the beverage cartridge (3) is provided with at least one through hole for supplying a pressurized fluid and for connecting the pressure chamber (11) in the beverage cartridge (3) to the external space. The assembly of claim 9, wherein the at least one through hole is 30 is located near or at least distant from the bottom (37, 437, 704, 804,904) of the beverage cartridge (3). Assembly according to claim 5, characterized in that the beverage cartridge (3) is deformable substantially or completely compressible by the pressure generated during use in the pressure chamber 35 (11) at least in the case of an open outlet device, wherein at least the closing portion and preferably the complementary component (65) are non-deformable to maintain the sealing connection. Assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that the beverage cartridge (3) is inside 40 of the complementary part (65) is deformable, Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the beverage cartridge (3) is thin-walled, self-supporting and is made of plastic, preferably a thermoplastic polymer, more preferably PEN, most preferably a combination of PEN and PET. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the beverage cartridge (3) comprises a tubular outlet device which is connected to or is connectable to an outlet opening (43), the tubular outlet device which is rigidly connected to the beverage cartridge (3) prevents contact of the tapped fluid with other parts during use 50 output device. Assembly according to claim 14, characterized in that the tubular outlet device is at least partially flexible and has the shape of a flexible outlet hose (717) which can be closed by compression. -23EN 301666 B6 Assembly according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that at least the free end of the tubular outlet device extends out of the assembly during use, the outlet device being at least partially housed in a mechanism for clamping it from the outside to close or open the fluid flow wherein the beverage dispensing device is removable and can be assembled together with the beverage cartridge (3). Assembly according to any one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the tubular outlet device comprises a connection device, wherein at least its free end is displaceable at a distance from the outlet opening (43). Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a tubular connector (95, 295, 595) with a sharp end (43) is disposed adjacent or in the outlet opening (43) of the beverage cartridge (3) in the filled state before use. 105) for interconnecting the interior of the beverage cartridge (3) with the liquid outlet duct through the gate (45) as the pressure in the pressure chamber (11, 21) increases. Assembly according to claim 18 and according to any one of claims 14 to 17, characterized in that the components of the tubular outlet device are at least a tubular connector (95,295, 595) with a sharp end (105) and an outlet channel. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the beverage cartridge (3) in the tapping device (1, 501, 601) connects at a certain distance from its surface surrounded by the peripheral wall (9, 509, 609) of the pressure chamber (3). 11, 2111), wherein the closure portion (15) is slightly spaced from the closure device, wherein as the pressure in the pressure chamber increases 25 (11), the closure portion (15) is pressed against the closure device to close the beverage tapping device (1, 501, 601) and to close the pressure chamber (11), Assembly according to claim 20 and any one of claims 18 or 19, characterized in that the sharp end (105) of the tubular connector (95, 295, 595) is pushed through the insulating membrane 30 (45, 545) during movement of the beverage cartridge (3) against the closure device. Assembly according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a part of the tapping device (1, 501, 601) connects a first barrel-shaped part having a lid (116) which is preferably rotatably mounted on the first part and a beverage the magazine (3) is stored 35 adjustable vertically within the first portion and closed by a secondary lid (67) to form a pressure chamber (11), the assembly including a protective device to prevent the secondary lid (67) from opening to pressurize the pressure chamber (11) to a higher pressure, than in the environment to isolate the beverage container (3) from the environment than the pressure in the pressure chamber (11) and / or the beverage container (3) is first raised above the ambient pressure. A method of tapping a beverage, in particular a beverage containing carbon dioxide such as beer or carbonated soft drinks, characterized in that the beverage in the closed beverage cartridge (3) is placed in a portion of the beverage tapping device (1, 501, 601) the container, the beverage cartridge (3) with the outlet orifice (43) and the primary lid (47) enclosing the outlet orifice (43) at a distance from the outlet (43) is airtight in a portion of the container shape to form a pressure chamber (11) between the beverage cartridge (3), the inner wall of the container and the closure portion (15), the free end of the at least partially flexible tubular outlet device connected to the beverage cartridge (3) near the outlet (43) is positioned outside the device (1) , 501, 601) for beverage tapping, beverage supply 50 niches are closed by the outer lid (116, 316) and part of the tubular outlet device exiting the beverage tapping device (1, 501, 601) is placed in the throttle mechanism for opening and closing the passage through the outlet device, the pressure in the pressure chamber (11) being increased by pressure means, the inner portion of the beverage cartridge ( 3) is then brought into contact with the external environment by means of at least a throttling mechanism, at least a portion of the beverage is displaced by the action of JUIOOO BO increased pressure by a tubular outlet device into the environment while reducing the portion of the beverage cartridge (3) that contains the beverage. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the course is or before it is 5, the antiseptic insulating membrane (45, 545) ruptures through the sharp end (105) of the tubular connector (95, 295, 595) due to the pressure build-up in the pressure chamber (11). Method according to claim 24, characterized in that during the pressure increase in the pressure chamber (11), the beverage cartridge (3) is moved relative to the sharp end (105) of the tubular connection piece (95,295, 595) to push it through the insulating membrane (45). 545). Method according to any one of claims 23 to 25, characterized in that the compressible beverage cartridge (3), the closure part (15) of which is disposed on the complementary part (65), 15, which is relatively rigid compared to the beverage cartridge (65), during compression of the pressure chamber (11) inside the complementary member (65), is compressed to expel the beverage. A method according to any one of claims 23 to 25, characterized in that in a relatively rigid beverage cartridge (3, 403) comprising a storage compartment (448) and at least 20, a portion of the pressure chamber (11) separated from each other by the flexible diaphragm (444, 708) expels the flexible diaphragm (444, 708) at least partially in the direction of the outlet opening (43) to push the beverage out of the reducing with the storage department. A beverage cartridge (3, 203, 403, 503, 603, 701, 801, 901) for an assembly according to any of the A method according to any one of claims 23 to 27, characterized in that the beverage cartridge (3) has the shape of a bottle or barrel and comprises a transition portion (39) with an outlet opening (43), the closure portion ( 15) is located in an elongation of the longitudinal edge of the transition portion (39), which is its edge lying on the opposite side to the outlet opening (43), the closure portion (15) being rigidly connected to the beverage cartridge (3) or beverage The magazine (3) forms one unit. A beverage container according to claim 28, characterized in that it is made of a synthetic material, preferably PEN, more preferably a combination of PET and PEN, and is intended for storing beer, in particular lager with a CO ₂ content of more than 3 g / kg, in particular with a CO ₂ content exceeding 4.5 g / kg, and has a volume of 2 L or higher, preferably at least 4 L. A beverage cartridge according to claim 28 or 29, characterized in that its wall is provided with deformation zones for at least partial directional dependence of the beverage cartridge (3) deformed when compressed by external pressure at least in a radial direction, preferably 40 in the axial direction and / or in the radial direction. A beverage cartridge according to claim 28, wherein its walls are non-deformable in use, wherein inside the beverage cartridge (3) is a bag or bottle-shaped storage compartment (448) that is compressible and is fixed at least inside or near it. 45 of an outlet opening (43) of the beverage container (3), wherein at least one wall of the storage compartment is substantially oxygen impermeable. A beverage tapping device (1) for an assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 22 or a method according to any one of claims 23 to 27, characterized in that it comprises a pressurized beverage A chamber (11) in which, in use, the beverage cartridge (3) is stored at least partially in such a manner, the pressure chamber (11) being at least partially formed by a space between the beverage cartridge (3) and the beverage dispensing device (1); is at least partially delimited and separated from the surrounding space by the closure portion (15) of the beverage cartridge (3) and located at a distance from the outlet opening (43) of the beverage cartridge (3), wherein 55 the outlet opening (43) of the beverage cartridge (3) is outside the pressure chamber (11). -25GB 301666 B6 Complementary member (65, 665) for an assembly according to any one of claims 5 to 22 and for a method according to any one of claims 23 to 27 in a beverage cartridge according to any one of claims 28 to 31 or for a beverage dispensing device according to claim 32, that is attachable to the beverage cartridge (3) or at least to surrounding parts thereof 5 an outlet orifice (43), in particular at the orifice (41) of the outlet orifice (43) of the beverage cartridge (3), said complementary component including a closure portion for surrounding the dispensing orifice of the beverage container at a distance therefrom, further comprising at least partially flexible tubular dispensing section provided with coupling means for engaging the dispensing opening of the container and provided at the opposite end of the means for interacting with the dispensing device. Apparatus for storing and tapping beer and other beverages according to any one of claims 1 to 22, characterized in that the beverage cartridge (3) consists of a separation device separating the storage compartment (448) in the beverage cartridge (3) from the pressure compartment (3). 446), the outlet device being connectable to a storage compartment (448) and a pressure source 15 (724) is connected to a pressure compartment (446) for supplying a pressurized medium to at least partially move the separation means and reduce the volume of the storage compartment (448) and displace the beverage when the dispensing device is opened, Apparatus according to claim 34, characterized in that the pressure source (724) and the discharge device to which the outlet device is connected are part of a beverage tapping device (1) comprising a storage space in which at least partially the beverage is stored a reservoir (3) having at least one opening (450, 706) at a distance from the bottom (37, 437, 704, 804, 904) to which a pressure source (724) is coupled for loosely connecting the pressure source to the pressure source space in the beverage cartridge (3). Apparatus according to claim 34 or 35, characterized in that a storage bag (448) is provided with a bag of resilient material attached to or near the outlet opening (43), wherein at least one pressure space is located between the wall of the beverage container (44). 3) and this bag. Apparatus according to any one of claims 34 to 36, characterized in that the beverage cartridge (3) comprises an outer lid (116, 711) attached to its other portion, at least a portion of the outlet device being covered by the outer lid (116, 711). the outer lid (116, 711) being provided with at least one opening (720) covered by a detachable cover (722) and a portion of the 35 of the removable cover (722) that is in contact with the outer lid (116, 711) is formed by a tear-off closure for access to the outer lid (116, 711) only after the tear-off closure is torn off. Device according to claim 37, characterized in that the tear-off closure is comprised of a plurality of individual parts connecting the detachable cover (722) to the outer lid (116, 711). Apparatus according to any one of claims 35 to 38, characterized in that the outlet device comprises at least partially flexible outlet hose (717, 817, 917) for connection to the discharge device and inseparable from the beverage cartridge (3, 203, 403, 503). , 603, 701, 801, 901). Device according to any one of claims 35 to 39, characterized in that the dispensing device comprises a cooling device (31, 980) for cooling the beverage as it is tapped, or wherein the cooling device (31,980) is located near the dispensing device. A device according to any one of claims 35 to 40, characterized in that the dispensing device includes a connection device on which at least one side, during use, is visible from outside the information relating to the beverage contained in the beverage cartridge (3, 203,403,503, 603,701,801,901 ).